Every year, over 125 million people watch the Rockefeller Christmas Tree. It’s a global event for a single spruce in Midtown. This year, it will shine brighter than ever with over 50,000 LEDs and a Swarovski star by Daniel Libeskind.
The tree for 2025 is a Norway spruce at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. It stands between West 49th and 50th Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues. It’s the centerpiece of Rockefeller Center and sets the holiday mood in New York City.
The tree will be lit up on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. NBC will broadcast “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” live. Peacock will also stream it for viewers across the country.
The tree will sparkle every day from 5 a.m. to midnight. It will shine nonstop on Christmas Day. On New Year’s Eve, it will light up until 9 p.m. After the season, the wood will be used by Habitat for Humanity.
This year’s tree comes from East Greenbush, New York. The Russ family donated it. It’s about 75 years old, 75 feet tall, and weighs 11 tons. The Rockefeller Tree makes New York City feel magical during the holidays.
Lighting date revealed and what’s new for 2025
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is back, and we know when it will be lit. Fans can now mark their calendars for the lighting. This year, there are new stars and a tighter broadcast schedule.
Curious about rockefeller tree dates and how the night unfolds? Read on for exact times, who’s hosting, and the daily schedule. This will guide you on when does the rockefeller tree get lit all season long.
Official ceremony date and time
The 2025 lighting ceremony is on Wednesday, December 3. It follows the tradition of the first Wednesday after Thanksgiving. Festivities start around 7 p.m. ET, with NBC’s live window airing 8–10 p.m. ET.
For those wondering what time does rockefeller tree get lit, planners list the illumination just before 10 p.m. The switch is often timed near 9:57 p.m. These dates align with the city’s holiday rhythm and help visitors plan their evening.
Broadcast and streaming details
NBC carries “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” live nationwide from 8–10 p.m. ET. Peacock simulcasts the special for cord-cutters. Viewers looking up when is the rockefeller tree lit can catch it during the two-hour telecast featuring Today’s Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, and Craig Melvin.
For a full rundown of when does the rockefeller tree get lit and how to watch, see this official lighting guide that tracks broadcast details and timing.
Host and performers announced
Reba McEntire hosts for the first time, adding fresh energy to the Rockefeller Christmas Tree tradition. She joins a starry lineup that includes Marc Anthony, Halle Bailey, Michael Bublé, Kristin Chenoweth, Laufey, New Edition, Brad Paisley, Carly Pearce, Gwen Stefani, and the Radio City Rockettes.
As fans ask when will the tree at rockefeller center be lit, the night’s music builds to the flip of the switch. This makes the answer feel as grand as the skyline.
Daily lighting schedule through the season
After the ceremony, the Rockefeller Christmas Tree shines daily from December 4 through early January. Lights turn on at 5 a.m. and glow until midnight; on Christmas Day, it stays lit for 24 hours. On New Year’s Eve, the display runs 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Travelers checking when is the rockefeller tree lit on a typical day can aim for the quiet first switch-on at 5 a.m. If planning around a WNYW schedule or evening news, note that nightly glow makes Midtown strolls easy to time.
| Key Moment | Date | Time (ET) | How to Watch/Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ceremony Start (On-Site) | Wed, Dec 3, 2025 | 7:00 p.m. | Arrive early at Rockefeller Center; crowd control begins late afternoon |
| NBC/Peacock Live Window | Wed, Dec 3, 2025 | 8:00–10:00 p.m. | NBC broadcast; Peacock simulcast; check local listings and WNYW schedule |
| Expected Illumination | Wed, Dec 3, 2025 | ~9:57 p.m. | Watch live during the special; prime answer to what time does rockefeller tree get lit |
| Daily Lighting (Season) | Dec 4, 2025–Early Jan 2026 | 5:00 a.m.–12:00 a.m. | First switch-on at 5 a.m.; ideal for low-crowd photos and video |
| Christmas Day Schedule | Thu, Dec 25, 2025 | 24 hours | Tree remains lit all day and night |
| New Year’s Eve Schedule | Wed, Dec 31, 2025 | 5:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. | Plan visits before Times Square celebrations |
Key dates and timeline for the season
Mark your calendar with the main Rockefeller tree dates. People often wonder when the tree comes down in NYC. This guide will help you know every important moment, from when it arrives to when it leaves.
Expected arrival and hoisting in Midtown Manhattan
The spruce tree is expected to arrive at Rockefeller Center on a Saturday in mid-November. It could be either November 8 or November 15, 2025. The tree is hoisted up around 7 a.m. It takes three to four hours to set it up by the rink.
Thousands of people show up to watch. Santa might make an appearance. You might even get a small branch as a keepsake.
Decoration period and scaffolding removal
After the tree is up, scaffolding goes up for about two weeks. During this time, over 50,000 LED lights are put on the tree. The Swarovski star is also added.
Crews aim to remove the scaffolding by Thanksgiving weekend. This is no later than November 27, 2025. This way, the tree is ready for the holiday rush.
The lights are turned off until the big lighting ceremony. If Saks Fifth Avenue has its opening, the scaffolding comes down soon after. This makes the whole block look festive.
When the lights turn on each day
The tree lights are on from 5 a.m. to midnight every day. On Christmas Day, it’s lit up 24 hours. On New Year’s Eve, the lights go off at 9 p.m.
Early risers can see the tree light up at 5 a.m. It’s a great time for photos and a quiet walk.
How long the tree stays up and when it comes down
The tree stays lit from December 3 to early-to-mid January 2026. Many ask when the tree comes down in NYC. The tree usually comes down after the first week of January.
For exact dates, watch for updates from Rockefeller Center. Once down, the tree is milled into lumber for Habitat for Humanity.
| Milestone | Estimated 2025–2026 Timing | What to Expect | Visitor Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arrival in Midtown | Sat., Nov 8 or Nov 15, 2025 | Flatbed arrival, crowds gather at dawn | Arrive by 6:30 a.m. for views of the crane and hoisting |
| Hoisting | Begins ~7 a.m., 3–4 hours | Crane placement by the rink | Stand along Fifth Avenue for wide-angle photos |
| Decoration | Mid–late November (about two weeks) | LED lights and Swarovski star installed | Visit late afternoon to see crews at work |
| Scaffolding Removal | By Thanksgiving weekend (no later than Nov 27) | Tree fully visible, but unlit | Great time for daytime shots without glare |
| Daily Lighting | 5 a.m.–midnight (24 hrs on Dec 25; until 9 p.m. on Dec 31) | Plaza sparkles on a regular schedule | Catch the 5 a.m. switch-on for minimal crowds |
| Display Window | Dec 3, 2025–early/mid Jan 2026 | Peak season foot traffic | Weekday mornings offer easier access |
| Deinstallation | January 2026 (TBD) | Tree comes down and is transported for reuse | Monitor Rockefeller Center updates on rockefeller tree dates and when does the tree go down in nyc |
If you’re tracking when the Christmas tree comes down in NYC, keep an eye on updates. This is the best way to know the exact dates for the end of the season.
Where the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree comes from this year
Wondering where the Rockefeller tree is from this year? It’s a Norway spruce from East Greenbush, New York. It’s a new addition to the Rockefeller tree tradition in Midtown. Visitors can find it at Rockefeller Plaza, where it draws crowds.
People often ask how many lights are on the tree during the famous lighting. It’s a sight to see.
Origin and donor family story
The 2025 spruce is from East Greenbush and was given by the Russ family. It grew on their land for over 60 years. Judy Russ donated it in memory of her late husband, Dan, with help from her son, Liam.
This story adds a personal touch to the tree’s origin. It’s a reminder of the real family behind the gift.
Tree specs: age, weight, and transport
The 2025 tree is about 75 feet tall and weighs 11 tons. It’s a Norway spruce from the Northeast. The tree must be under 100 feet tall to fit Midtown streets.
A crane helps cut the tree. A special trailer carries it to Rockefeller Center. These details are important for those curious about the tree’s journey.
Afterlife of the tree with Habitat for Humanity
After Rockefeller Plaza, the tree goes to a mill in New Jersey. It’s cut into beams, dried, and smoothed for Habitat for Humanity projects. This has been happening every year for Habitat for Humanity homes.
This gives the tree a second life, beyond the holiday season. It’s a meaningful use for those wondering what happens next.
How tall is the Rockefeller Tree in 2025
In 2025, the tree is about 75 feet tall. It fits within the usual range of 69 to 100 feet. Once lit, it will be covered in millions of LEDs.
The tree’s roots are in East Greenbush, and its story is deeply personal. It’s a landmark for the season, attracting those curious about its origins.
How to see the tree in person: location, hours, and best viewing tips
They come for the glow and stay for the moment. Here’s a quick guide to seeing the Christmas tree in NYC. Find out the best hours to visit and what to expect at Rockefeller Plaza.
Exact address and how to get there by subway
The tree is at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. It’s between West 49th–50th Streets and 5th–6th Avenues. If you ask where the Christmas tree is in NYC, this is the spot in Midtown Manhattan.
The closest subway is 47–50 Sts–Rockefeller Center on the B, D, F, and M lines. You can also take 5 Av/53 St on the E and M, a five-minute walk. The Plaza is well marked once you exit.
Best times for photos and avoiding crowds
Arrive between 5–6 a.m. for clean shots and steady video. The lights turn on at 5 a.m., so early risers get the first sparkle. Evenings are cinematic but crowded; sunrise hours are calmer.
Find out when the Rockefeller tree gets lit each day. Dawn light is flattering, while night highlights the star and ornaments. These times also help capture the tree’s height without interruptions.
Do you need tickets to visit or watch the lighting
No tickets are needed to visit the Rockefeller tree or watch the lighting ceremony; it’s free. The tree is lit daily from 5 a.m. to midnight, all day on Christmas, and until 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.
Visitors often ask when the Rockefeller tree gets lit and when the season starts. The TV special airs in prime time, and the tree is lit close to the end. Plan to arrive early for the broadcast.
What to expect day-of at Rockefeller Plaza
On lighting night, crowds gather early, and barricades limit movement. Prime viewing spots fill before noon, and sightlines shrink by afternoon. Dress warmly, charge your phone, and expect long waits.
The special airs 8–10 p.m. EST, with the big moment near 9:57 p.m. After the count, people linger to take in the scale. They feel the tree’s height as the music swells, truly rockin around the Christmas tree beneath the star.
How to watch the lighting on TV and online
NBC airs “Christmas in Rockefeller Center” live on December 3, 2025, from 8–10 p.m. EST. This lets viewers across the country find out when the tree will be lit. The show includes the countdown, performances, and the tree’s lighting.
Peacock also streams the special at the same time. This is great for those who cut the cord but want to see the tree lit. The broadcast schedule matches the plaza events, with the tree lighting around 10 p.m. EST.
The show features Savannah Guthrie, Al Roker, and Craig Melvin. It also includes the Radio City Rockettes and famous artists. Viewers will see over 50,000 lights and a 900-pound Swarovski crystal star up close.
Those interested in behind-the-scenes will enjoy clips of the tree’s arrival. These moments add to the excitement for the countdown.
Tip: Arrive a few minutes early to secure your stream. Then, stay until the end to see the tree lit and the first moments of light.
| Where to Watch | Date | Time (EST) | What You’ll See |
|---|---|---|---|
| NBC (broadcast) | December 3, 2025 | 8:00–10:00 p.m. | Live performances, hosts on site, the exact moment when is the rockefeller tree lit |
| Peacock (streaming) | December 3, 2025 | 8:00–10:00 p.m. | Simulcast for cord-cutters, clear view of how many lights are on the rockefeller tree and the star |
| Pre-show coverage | December 3, 2025 | Before 8:00 p.m. | Arrival highlights featuring the truck with christmas tree and setup snapshots |
| Countdown moment | December 3, 2025 | Close to 10:00 p.m. | Definitive answer to when will the tree at rockefeller center be lit and what time does rockefeller tree get lit |
Surrounding NYC holiday attractions to add to your itinerary
Steps from Rockefeller Center New York, you can create a festive route. It combines skyline views, legendary stage shows, and quiet moments. The glow of New York’s tree echoes the spirit of O Christmas Tree.
Top of the Rock, Radio City, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral
From the plaza, Top of the Rock offers a stunning view of the skyline and Central Park. It’s a perfect backdrop for the NYC tree. Radio City Music Hall lights up the block with the Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes.
Across Fifth Avenue, St. Patrick’s Cathedral offers a calm pause. Behind it, Lotte New York Palace shines with its own display, adding to the holiday style.
Saks Fifth Avenue windows and light moments
Directly across from Rockefeller plaza, Saks Fifth Avenue’s windows draw crowds. They offer vivid storytelling and quick light moments. Even when a show pauses, the block stays photogenic.
Arrive near dusk for the best colors. The scene blends classic carols with modern beats from street performers. This keeps the energy high without losing tradition.
Bryant Park Winter Village and nearby festive stops
A short walk south leads to Bryant Park Winter Village. The rink, market stalls, and cocoa stands round out a Midtown loop. The path between Rockefeller Center New York and the park passes window displays and wreath-trimmed entrances.
Make it a single outing: start at New York’s tree, sweep past Saks and the cathedral, then glide to Bryant Park. Along the way, the city’s soundtrack fades in and out. Sometimes it’s a chorus of O Christmas Tree, sometimes a nod to Brenda Lee’s classic.
Essential dates at a glance: when it’s lit and when it comes down
The 2025 season starts with the tree arriving in Midtown on a Saturday, possibly November 8 or November 15. It will be hoisted around 7 a.m. The decoration process takes about two weeks. By November 27, the scaffolding will be gone for Thanksgiving weekend views.
For the full reveal and timing, see the official lighting details.
The tree lighting is on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. It happens during NBC’s prime-time special, aiming for near 9:57 p.m. Lights are on daily from 5 a.m. to midnight. They shine 24 hours on Christmas Day and until 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve.
Wondering when the Rockefeller Tree comes down in 2025? It stays up until early-to-mid January 2026. The exact removal date is announced closer to the new year. The wood is then used by Habitat for Humanity.
Visitors often ask when the tree comes down in NYC. Plan your visit for the first half of January. Check updates as the season ends.
| Milestone | What to Know | 2025–2026 Window |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival & Hoisting | Saturday arrival; hoisting starts near 7 a.m. | Nov 8 or Nov 15, 2025 |
| Decor & Scaffolding | Two weeks of trimming; scaffolding cleared for holiday crowds | Removal by Nov 27, 2025 |
| Lighting Night | NBC broadcast; illumination shortly before 10 p.m. | Dec 3, 2025 |
| Daily Lighting | 5 a.m.–midnight; 24 hours on Dec 25; until 9 p.m. on Dec 31 | Dec 4, 2025–early Jan 2026 |
| Take-Down | Removal in early-to-mid January; wood supports Habitat for Humanity | Exact date TBD in Jan 2026 |
Quick tip: If you’re timing a visit around when does the Rockefeller Tree come down 2025, keep an eye on January updates. This way, you won’t miss those last twinkling nights.
Conclusion
The Rockefeller Christmas Tree is back, marking the start of the holiday season. This year, a 75-foot Norway spruce from East Greenbush is the star. It’s decorated with a 900-pound Swarovski star and over 50,000 lights.
The tree lighting ceremony is on Wednesday, December 3, 2025. It will be broadcast live on NBC and Peacock from 8–10 p.m. EST. Reba McEntire and the Radio City Rockettes will host the event.
The tree lights up every day from 5 a.m. to midnight. It shines brightly on Christmas Day and until 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve. If you’re curious, the tree is at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in East Greenbush.
Early mornings, around 5–6 a.m., are the best times to see it. The crowds are smaller, and the photos are crisp.
Many wonder about the tree’s height and when it comes down. It’s about 75 feet tall and stays up until mid-January. After that, it’s milled into lumber for Habitat for Humanity.
For exact dates, the tree will likely be taken down in the first or second week of January. This depends on the weather and operations.
Getting to the tree is easy, thanks to the B, D, F, M, and E subway lines. Nearby attractions like Top of the Rock and Radio City Music Hall make the visit even better. With these details, you’re all set to enjoy the Rockefeller Christmas Tree tradition in Midtown.
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